Arizona big game is a special category of game. The state publishes a set of Fish and Game laws every year; Complete information on Arizona big game can be found on the Arizona Department of Game and Fish website. The Arizona Game Regulations book covers one fiscal year, from fall through spring, and identifies the following animals as “big game”: Buck Deer, Mule Deer, White-tailed Deer, Buffalo, Pronghorn, Elk, Bighorn Sheep desert bighorn, buffalo, Javelina, Mountain Lion, Bobcat, Black Bears, and Merriam’s Turkey.

Arizona has taken several pro-hunter measures to protect hunters and promote the sport to those who may be challenged. There is a state law that helps protect hunters from harassment by groups and individuals who oppose hunting. Arizona has special free combined hunting and fishing licenses available to “Pioneers,” hunters over the age of 70 who have also been Arizona residents for the previous 25 years, and for Veterans who are disabled, can show 100% disability-related disabilities. service, and who have resided in the state for one or more prior years.

Big game hunters in Arizona over the age of 14 must have their own license to hunt. For big game hunting, those ages 10-13 must have a valid license, hunter education course completion card, and required permits, tags, and stamps. Children under 10 years of age are not allowed to hunt big game. Licenses can be purchased at dealerships or at any Arizona Department of Fish and Game office. To qualify as a resident, the hunter must have lived in Arizona for at least six months prior to applying for a license or tag. Members of the Armed Forces must be stationed in Arizona for the previous 30 days. Only residents can purchase a resident license; everyone else must purchase the non-resident license. A three parent non-resident license cannot be used for big game hunting. Under certain restrictions, individuals may transfer big game tags to children.

Arizona big game permit prices range from $3 for a bobcat resident or non-resident tag, up to $5452.25 for a non-resident buffalo bull permit tag. There is an annual raffle for big game permits, sponsored by the Arizona Fish and Game Commission, along with sporting groups. Tickets are between $5 and $25, depending on the species of big game chosen; a tag is drawn for each of 10 different species of big game.

There is a lottery for moose and antelope permits and a bonus points system; Full details of this and all Arizona big game hunting rules and fees can be found on the Arizona Game and Fish Department website. Hunts can take place on almost all public lands administered by the BLM. Special regulations are in place for wild hunting areas, there is no gas, drinking water or other services available, and the density of animals is low, making hunting a challenge. Big game hunts in Arizona are tough and the weather is unpredictable and changeable. Motorized vehicles, mountain bikes, and mechanized equipment are prohibited in wilderness areas. Arizona’s national parks are closed to hunting.